News Archives - Page 2 of 9 - Hoffmann Family of Companies

Derby’s three-state footprint and NVH expertise enhances Hoffmann’s long-term manufacturing strategy

LOUISVILLE (Sept. 22, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a U.S.-based family equity firm known for its long-term investment philosophy and diversified portfolio, today announced the acquisition of Derby Fabricating Solutions, LLC (“Derby”), a leading manufacturer serving the automotive and appliance industries.

Founded in 1977, Derby operates four production facilities across the Midwest: Louisville and Cadiz, Kentucky; Sidney, Ohio; and Rockford, Michigan. The company specializes in the conversion and fabrication of die-cut nonmetallic materials, with a strong focus on noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) control solutions for automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers.

Derby is IATF 16949 registered, reflecting its commitment to quality and continuous improvement. The company was among the first in its industry to achieve TS 16949 certification and continues to deliver award-winning audit scores and PPM results.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Derby Fabricating Solutions to Hoffmann Family of Companies,” said Geoff Hoffmann, CEO of HF Companies’ private equity arm. “Derby’s reputation for precision, innovation, and customer-centric manufacturing aligns perfectly with our values. This acquisition strengthens our manufacturing vertical and opens new opportunities for growth and operational synergy across our portfolio.”

“Joining Hoffmann Family of Companies marks an exciting new chapter for Derby,” said Jason Kellams, President and CEO of Derby Fabricating Solutions. “From the beginning, it was clear that our cultures were aligned—both organizations value integrity, long-term relationships, and operational excellence. We’re eager to leverage Hoffmann’s resources and strategic vision to accelerate our growth and continue delivering exceptional value to our customers.”

Derby’s mission is to be the most trusted and valued supplier to its customers—delivering excellence through uncompromising quality, innovative service, and total cost management. With nearly five decades of expertise and a forward-thinking approach to manufacturing and customer care, Derby is poised to accelerate its impact across industries. The partnership with Hoffmann Family of Companies marks a pivotal moment in Derby’s growth journey, unlocking new opportunities for scale, innovation, and long-term value creation.

The deal team was led by Clayton Jones, EVP of Business Development and advised by Husch Blackwell (Legal) and Forvis Mazars (Diligence). Derby was advised by Donnelly Penman (M&A) and Jackson Walker LLP (Legal). For more information, visit www.derbyfab.com or www.hfcompanies.com.

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies: Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 120 global brands and employs 17,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.

For More Information: Rachel Berkowitz | [email protected]

Spotlighting RMC’s journey, impact, and growth within the Hoffmann portfolio.

Every portfolio company has a story worth telling—one built on innovation, resilience, and lasting impact. In our new series, From Vision to Value, we spotlight the businesses within the Hoffmann portfolio, bringing their journeys, challenges, and successes to life in a way that captures their unique contributions.

To launch the series, we sat down with Shawn Thomson, Founder and CEO of RMC – Resorts I Mountains I Cities, the largest privately owned destination management and special events company in the United States. With over 35 destinations nationwide and revenues exceeding $75 million, RMC is a powerhouse in luxury hospitality—and Shawn is the visionary behind it all.

GEOFF:
Shawn, you’ve built something truly remarkable with RMC. I’m proud to share that the company made the Inc. 5000 list of Fastest Growing Companies in America—for the second year in a row. And on top of that, you were recently named one of Colorado Biz’s 2025 Top Women of Colorado. Congratulations!

SHAWN:
Thank you, Geoff. I wasn’t going to be the one to bring it up, but I really appreciate it. These honors mean a lot—but they’re a reflection of our entire team. We say it all the time: one team, one dream.

GEOFF:
Let’s rewind—how did you first get into destination management?

SHAWN:
It started in 1989. I had just moved to Aspen after running a company in Houston that managed global crew rotations. Commuting between the two cities was tough—especially with a daughter in fourth grade. Eventually, I sold that business and asked myself, “What’s next?”

I’d worked with companies like RMC before—back then, they were called ground suppliers. Someone suggested I buy a small Aspen-based company, and I thought, “I’ve hired these teams before. I know this space. I can do this.” So in 1990, I bought RMC. It was just me and one office in Aspen.

As we grew beyond the Rockies, we rebranded to RMC—Resorts | Mountains | Cities. Today, we operate in over 35 destinations across the U.S.

GEOFF:
What was the first market you expanded into beyond Aspen?

SHAWN:
Vail was our first move—it’s close to Aspen and made strategic sense. Our first hotel partner was the Ritz-Carlton Aspen, where we went in-house. That embedded model—being physically present within hotel properties—is a key differentiator for RMC. It allows us to be deeply integrated and responsive.

We also maintain external offices for operational needs. Every destination we serve has a brick-and-mortar presence. From Vail, we expanded to Colorado Springs and the Broadmoor, then Denver, Jackson Hole, and Park City. Our growth was often driven by strong relationships with hotel GMs—many of whom relocated and invited us to follow. If the opportunity aligned, we opened an office.

GEOFF:
Any standout examples from that journey?

SHAWN:
Park City is a great one. Both the Montage and St. Regis opened there the same year. Our GM from Aspen moved to Deer Valley and encouraged us to establish a presence. We opened our office a year and a half before Montage even launched. That kind of trust and foresight has been a cornerstone of our growth.

GEOFF:
Did that pattern continue as you moved into other regions?

SHAWN:
Absolutely—though sometimes I went kicking and screaming! Bluffton and the Savannah area weren’t on my radar, but now that region—including Charleston, Savannah, and Kiawah—is one of our most successful.

It’s amazing how things come full circle. The General Manager who brought us into St. Regis has since moved on, but his daughter now works for us. We’ve had several second-generation team members join RMC, including a young woman in Aspen whose mother worked for me years ago. That kind of continuity and loyalty means everything.

GEOFF:
It sounds like relationships are central to your success. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in that area?

SHAWN:
Always remember who your clients are—and it’s not just the end user. At RMC, we treat our hotel partners as our most important clients. We work alongside them to serve their guests, who ultimately become our clients too. The same goes for our vendors. We place enormous trust in them and treat them like clients because they’re essential to the experience we deliver.

GEOFF:
That’s a powerful model. How do you ensure vendor quality and compliance?

SHAWN:
We’re extremely selective. We have a dedicated team that vets vendors—everything from insurance and employee standards to presentation and uniforms. Due diligence is non-negotiable. Every vendor must align with our standards and the expectations of our luxury clientele.

GEOFF:
Within the Hoffmann Family of Companies, we’re always thinking about how to build a circular economy across the portfolio. When it comes to your vendor network, do you ever help them expand into new markets?

SHAWN:
Absolutely. It varies by region, but we’ve helped many vendors grow with us. A great example is from Park City—when we expanded to Big Sky, Montana, we brought a trusted transportation partner from the St. Regis. That move led to a multi-million-dollar contract for them. We’ve repeated that model in several destinations, always supporting our partners as we grow.

GEOFF:
Do you think that level of partnership and scrutiny sets RMC apart from other destination management companies?

SHAWN:
I believe it does. Most DMCs are likely diligent about insurance and liability—at least I hope so. But what sets us apart is our commitment to the luxury experience. We hold our partners to high standards in presentation, professionalism, and guest experience. That’s where we truly differentiate.

GEOFF:
As you continue expanding—like in Savannah, which turned out to be a surprise success—are there any markets you’re targeting now?

SHAWN:
We’re actively growing in Southern California. We already have offices in Santa Barbara, Healdsburg, Napa/Sonoma, and Lake Tahoe. Now, we’re expanding into Laguna and Newport Beach. We’re also planning to enter a Florida market near Savannah, which feels like a natural extension of our Southeast success.

GEOFF:
It’s clear that people and culture are central to your work. What’s your favorite part of what you do?

SHAWN:
Watching our team grow. We’ve had interns become general managers over 13 years. Our leadership is always looking ahead, nurturing talent and identifying opportunities.
I especially love hosting familiarization trips—“fams”—with hotel partners. We showcase destinations, venues, restaurants, and experiences in incredible detail. Seeing our clients’ reactions makes it all worthwhile.

SHAWN (continued):
Of course, with that passion come challenges. People are our greatest asset, so we invest heavily in training and development. We have a dedicated training division for new hires, a corporate trainer for leadership, and an annual RMC University for several days of education and connection.

We also support certifications like CMP and ADME, cover the costs, and send employees to relevant conferences. Our incentive trips are extraordinary—last year was Portugal, this year Fiji, and we’ve even gone to South Africa.

GEOFF:
That’s impressive. What’s the thinking behind those incentive trips?

SHAWN:
We believe that experiencing an incentive trip firsthand helps our team better understand what our clients expect. Everyone at RMC is eligible—operations, sales, admin, marketing, finance. It’s not just for sales anymore. We also recognize general managers, regional leaders, and our employee of the year through these programs.

GEOFF:
That’s a very inclusive approach!

SHAWN:
It has to be. Our finance team supports operations, marketing supports sales—it’s all interconnected. We’ve even asked employees if they’d prefer a cash bonus instead of the trip, and every time, they choose the trip. It builds culture, loyalty, and empathy. These experiences help our team connect with the kind of programs we deliver for clients.

GEOFF:
As you know, culture is extremely important to me and the business—how would you describe the culture at RMC, especially with so many locations and people?

SHAWN:
The biggest compliment we get is that RMC’s culture feels different. We’re all about our people. This year’s RMC University theme is “RMCU”—with a focus on you. We even built programming around the letters R, M, and C. The “C,” as you might guess, was about COVID and how we’ve grown through it.

Our culture is caring and family-based. That’s hard to maintain at scale, but we’re committed to it. My daughter is our Chief of Staff and has been with RMC for over 16 years. We have other mother-daughter teams, siblings, and long-standing relationships that feel like family.

GEOFF:
That’s inspiring, especially with nearly 1,000 employees.

SHAWN:
It’s a lot, but we work hard to make sure that family feeling reaches everyone. A new executive recently told me he’d never seen anything like our culture. In his previous role, it was just “do your job and clock out.” Here, we’re committed from day one.

From onboarding and training to executive engagement and career development, we’re always helping our people grow—and making sure they’re having fun. We operate in a luxury model, but we also believe in joy and connection.

GEOFF:
What has being part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies enabled you and RMC to do?

SHAWN:
The biggest thing is knowing they’re there. Kevin Morrison, CFO of Hoffmann Family of Companies, is one of the most amazing people I’ve worked with—he listens, supports, and has been instrumental in helping us expand. Tamir Rankow has been with me from the start, and really, the entire Hoffmann team is incredibly helpful. They catch things, offer insights, and provide financial support when needed. It’s a true partnership.

GEOFF:
What’s something you wish more people knew about your business?

SHAWN:
I wish people understood how much work goes into curating a destination. We don’t just Google things or call random vendors. We build relationships and rely on deep local expertise to ensure our clients get the best—whether it’s a bike ride, a restaurant, a venue, or entertainment.

At 3:00 AM, when something goes wrong, who are you going to call? That’s where a destination management company like ours makes all the difference. We live and breathe these destinations, and our team is trained to deliver that level of support.

GEOFF:
Shawn, I see you as a bright beacon of light in the portfolio. We’re so happy and lucky to have RMC as part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies.

LEARN MORE ABOUT RMC | READ SHAWN’S PROFILE IN COLORADOBIZ | WATCH RMC IN ACTION

Legacy Telluride Publication Becomes Part of Rapidly Growing Media Network

FORT MYERS/TELLURIDE (Sept. 15, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies and Hoffmann Media Group are pleased to announce the completed acquisition of the Telluride Daily Planet, its sister publication The Norwood Post, and lifestyle titles Telluride Style and Shelter Magazine. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Importantly, the closing coincides with the announcement of Maureen Pelisson as the new Publisher of the Telluride Daily Planet. Pelisson is a seasoned publishing executive whose career spans both national media and community journalism. She began her journey in New York with NBC News and later worked in San Francisco with CNET. For nearly two decades, she has led advertising, editorial, special publications, and digital marketing efforts at the Daily Planet. Under her leadership, the paper has earned multiple accolades from the Colorado Press Association and the Colorado Society of Professional Journalists, including five Advertising Excellence Awards.

Beyond her publishing work, Pelisson is a committed nonprofit advocate in the Telluride community, having dedicated over 15 years to serving on the Board of Directors for Second Chance Humane Society and mentoring with One-to-One Mentoring.

“It’s an honor to lead the Telluride Daily Planet into its next chapter,” said Pelisson. “I’m excited to build on its legacy of trusted local journalism while embracing new opportunities to serve and connect our vibrant community.”

Originally founded in 1898 as the Telluride Times, the Telluride Daily Planet has long been the trusted source of local news for residents and visitors of Telluride, Colorado, and the surrounding San Miguel County. Renowned for its in-depth community reporting, coverage of local government, and dedication to preserving the unique voice and culture of the mountain town, the publication holds a special place in the region’s media landscape.

In October, the Telluride Daily Planet will return to its historic name, Telluride Times, and will continue to operate under its existing local leadership. Hoffmann Media Group plans to invest in enhanced digital capabilities and expanded local coverage, ensuring the publication remains a trusted source of news for generations to come.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Maureen to our team and help further the legacy of the Telluride Daily Planet,” said J. Pason Gaddis, CEO of Hoffmann Media Group. “Telluride is a vibrant, world-class community, and we believe strong local journalism is essential to keeping it informed, connected, and resilient. We’re incredibly proud of the talented journalists who bring Telluride’s stories to life—and confident they’ll thrive under Maureen’s thoughtful leadership.”

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About Hoffmann Media Group: Hoffmann Media Group—part of Hoffmann Family of Companies—is a dynamic and innovative media company committed to delivering high-quality journalism and content. With a strong focus on community engagement, the group operates a diverse portfolio of publications and media platforms, connecting audiences through trusted reporting and meaningful storytelling. Hoffmann Media Group publishes variety of publications, including The Napa Valley Register, St. Helena Star, Florida Weekly, Babcock Ranch Telegraph, Ave Maria Sun, Town Chronicle, St. Ignace News, Mackinac Island Town Crier, Florida Health Care News, and iFoundMyDoctor.com. These publications span over 30 markets and focus on delivering high-quality local news and content.

For More Information: [email protected]

Annual List Recognizes Leaders Driving High-Impact M&A Across Industries

CHICAGO (Aug. 18, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies is proud to announce Geoff Hoffmann’s recognition on the 2025 Notable M&A Dealmakers list, published by Crain’s Chicago Business.

As described by Crain’s, this year’s Notable M&A Dealmakers represent a wide range of professionals guiding transformative deals across industries, from private equity and venture capital to manufacturing, health care, energy and beyond. The honorees lead corporate practice groups, serve on executive committees and manage high-stakes transactions on behalf of buyers, sellers and investors. Outside the office, they serve on nonprofit boards, mentor young professionals and contribute to civic and philanthropic initiatives that strengthen our business community.

“I’m honored to be recognized alongside so many outstanding leaders in Chicago’s dealmaking community,” said Hoffmann. “We’ve kept our foot on the pedal this year, completing eight acquisitions to date, and we’re energized by the momentum and opportunities still ahead in 2025.”

Most recently, the firm announced the acquisitions of Elmer Chocolate and Atlanta Party Rentals. August also brought news from portfolio company DHR Global—the leading executive search and talent advisory firm—that Priya Taneja has been named Chief Executive Officer, effective September 1, 2025. She succeeds Hoffmann, who will transition to Chairman of the Board.

This recognition follows Hoffmann’s inclusion In Crain’s February list of Who’s Who in Chicago Business.

VIEW THE FULL LIST HERE (SUBSCRIPTION MAY BE REQUIRED)

Telluride Daily Planet to Join Family-Owned Media Portfolio; Closing Anticipated September 2025

FORT MYERS (Aug. 18, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies and Hoffmann Media Group are pleased to announce a pending agreement to acquire the Telluride Daily Planet, its sister publication The Norwood Post, and lifestyle titles Telluride Style and Shelter Magazine. The transaction is expected to close on September 12, 2025. Terms of the agreement have not been disclosed.

“We are honored to carry forward the legacy of the Telluride Daily Planet and support the talented team of journalists who bring Telluride’s stories to life,” said J. Pason Gaddis, CEO of Hoffmann Media Group. “Telluride is a vibrant, world-class community, and we believe strong local journalism is essential to keeping it informed, connected, and resilient.”

“This acquisition reflects our continued commitment to the newspaper industry and our belief in the vital role of independent journalism in communities across the country,” added David Hoffmann, Chairman of Hoffmann Family of Companies.

Following the closing, the Telluride Daily Planet will return to its historic name, Telluride Times, and will continue to operate under its existing local leadership. Hoffmann Media Group plans to invest in enhanced digital capabilities and expanded local coverage, ensuring the publication remains a trusted source of news for generations to come.

This announcement follows Hoffmann Media Group’s June acquisition of Missourian Publishing Co., owner of The Missourian Media Group, a respected family-owned media organization based in Washington, Missouri.

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For More Information: [email protected]

Winnetka location debuts as the first in a series of expansions led by new parent company, Hoffmann Oberweis Dairy, LLC

CHICAGO (Aug. 14, 2025) — Oberweis Ice Cream and Dairy will open their first new scoop and dairy shop in Winnetka later this month, marking the first new shop opening in five years. The expansion onto Chicago’s North Shore marks the first opening under new parent company Hoffmann Oberweis Dairy, LLC, which plans to open more than a dozen stores in the next two years throughout Illinois, Missouri and Florida.

“We chose Winnetka for our first new opening in five years because it’s a family-centered community, and ice cream simply tastes better when shared with family,” said Adam Kraber, President and CEO of Hoffmann Oberweis Dairy. “Winnetka reflects the values we hold dear: a deep appreciation for quality, authentic experiences, and strong family connections. Our new scoop shop will be a welcoming space for families and individuals of all ages to enjoy premium ice cream and take a joyful pause in their day.”

Guests visiting the new Winnetka shop can look forward to a completely reimagined Oberweis experience. Designed as a nostalgic nod to classic ice cream parlors and in celebration of nearly 100 years of Oberweis tradition, the shop features a full-service ice cream counter — and for the first time ever, guests will be able to watch their ice cream being scooped right in front of them. The refreshed interior blends a warm, inviting color palette with the iconic Oberweis red and white, creating a space that’s both timeless and welcoming.

“Ice cream should be fun,” added Kraber. “With the new Winnetka shop, we wanted to bring a fresh perspective to the Oberweis brand—while staying true to what our guests know and love. We’re reintroducing beloved elements like the chessboards and our signature red and white colors, while also adding exciting new touches, including a full-service ice cream counter, a waffle cone installation, and elegant black and gold accents that give the space a refined, modern feel.”

The new black and gold design elements in the Winnetka shop pay tribute to the iconic Oberweis ice cream pints and quarts found in grocery stores and delivered across the Midwest. Guests will also be greeted by a whimsical waffle cone ceiling installation, designed to delight the senses with both the look and aroma of freshly made cones. Adding to the charm, playful ice cream cone wallpaper brings a touch of nostalgia and fun to the walls, creating a space that’s as inviting as it is memorable.

The new expansion from Oberweis is part of their inaugural 100 Scoops of Summer promotion, which is taking place at each of their stores throughout the Midwest. More than a dozen new family-friendly promotions from Oberweis are part of 100 Scoops of Summer, each designed to celebrate families, support local communities and create everlasting memories.

With the inaugural Scoop Stakes, guests can enter a season-long contest to win the coveted Golden Cone: One lucky winner per store will be selected each month to win a year’s worth of Oberweis ice cream, and one grand prize winner will win 100 Scoops of Ice Cream, aka, the “Golden Cone.” Sundae Mondays offer the first 20 children under ten years old a free scoop of ice cream, with adult purchase, every Monday through Labor Day.

To celebrate the dog days of summer, Oberweis has a full lineup of events planned throughout August. On National Root Beer Float Day (August 6), guests can enjoy $5 root beer floats all day at every Oberweis location. Then, on National S’mores Day (August 10), stores will feature a limited-edition S’mores ice cream flavor, available for a short time only.

The celebration continues with a special “Countdown to Summer’s End” from August 18–22, featuring daily promotions:

Sundae Monday (August 18): Special deals on sundaes.
$5 Frostbites (August 19): Available all day.
Kids Cone Happy Hour (August 20): From 2–5 p.m., kids 12 and under can enjoy $1 cones with the purchase of another menu item.
BOGO Scoops (August 21): Buy one scoop, get one free.
$5 Off $25+ (August 22): Save on purchases of $25 or more.

The grand opening of the new Winnetka scoop shop is set for mid-August. Guests will be invited to explore the beautifully redesigned space, enjoy free scoops and flavor samples, and help usher in an exciting new chapter for Oberweis.

The new scoop shop from Oberweis opens later this month and will be located at 510 Winnetka Avenue in Winnetka, Illinois. For more information on the new opening, 100 Scoops of Summer, Oberweis and future expansions, visit www.oberweis.com, or follow on social media via @oberweisdairy on Instagram, @oberweis on Facebook, and @oberweis_dairy on TikTok.

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About Hoffmann Oberweis Dairy, LLC

Hoffmann Oberweis Dairy, LLC is a heritage brand rooted in a tradition of craftsmanship, quality, and care since 1927. Renowned for its award-winning premium glass-bottled milk and small-batch ice cream, Oberweis has built a loyal following through its commitment to exceptional ingredients and uncompromising standards. Now proudly part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, Oberweis continues to evolve while honoring its legacy, expanding its presence across ice cream shops, home delivery, and retail grocery channels. Every product reflects our promise to deliver a superior experience, whether its milk delivered to your door, or a cone enjoyed in one of our welcoming shops. Guided by a passion for hospitality and a dedication to excellence, Oberweis invites customers to slow down, savor the moment, and taste the difference that quality makes. For more information, visit www.oberweis.com or follow us on Instagram at @OberweisDairy.

About Hoffmann Family of Companies

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 120 global brands and employs 17,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.

For More Information: Rachel Berkowitz | [email protected]

Strategic Partnership Aims to Expand Elmer’s Year-Round Offerings, Accelerate Growth

NEW ORLEANS (Aug. 5, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a U.S.-based family equity firm with a long-term investment philosophy, has acquired Elmer Chocolate (“Elmer”), one of the nation’s leading seasonal chocolatiers and the largest manufacturer of small heart-shaped chocolate boxes in the United States.

“We’re honored to partner with the Nelson family and build on Elmer Chocolate’s remarkable legacy,” said Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO of HF Companies. “Rob and Michael [Nelson] are exceptional leaders, and their commitment to quality and tradition aligns perfectly with our values. Elmer is a storied brand with tremendous potential, and we’re excited to help shape its next chapter of growth and innovation.”

Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Elmer will continue under the leadership of third-generation family members Rob and Michael Nelson, who will retain partial ownership and remain actively involved in the company’s future and leadership.

“This partnership marks a pivotal milestone for Elmer Chocolate as we embark on an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation,” said Rob Nelson, President & CEO. “By expanding operations and broadening our portfolio beyond seasonal confections, we’re positioning the company for year-round customer engagement—while remaining true to the heritage and craftsmanship that have defined our brand for 170 years. Most importantly, our current product line will remain unchanged, continuing to deliver the quality and flavor our consumers know and love.”

“At Elmer, our culture has always been rooted in people—our employees, our customers, and our community,” said Michael Nelson, President & Chief Operating Officer. “That shared focus was a key driver in choosing a partner with a long-term vision and genuine respect for family-owned businesses. We’re confident this collaboration will empower our team and help us advance our mission in meaningful ways. To our loyal customers: your Elmer teams aren’t going anywhere—we’ll continue to work closely with you on the exciting opportunities ahead.”

Elmer Chocolate’s story began in 1855 with New Orleans pastry chef Christopher Henry Miller. The business later evolved into Elmer Candy Corporation when Miller’s son-in-law, Augustus Elmer, and his descendants joined the enterprise. In the 1960s, Roy Nelson acquired the company’s confectionery arm, steering it toward seasonal chocolates. By 1970, he and his son Allan had consolidated manufacturing in Ponchatoula, Louisiana—laying the groundwork for Elmer’s rise as a national confectionery leader.

In 2016, Elmer further solidified its market presence by expanding its production facility by 70,000 square feet, bringing the total footprint to more than 400,000 square feet. The expansion positioned Elmer Chocolate as the most technologically advanced assorted chocolate manufacturer and packer in the industry.

With a rich legacy and iconic product lineup, Elmer has become a staple in American celebrations. Elmer has earned national recognition for their Celebrate with Chocolate Valentine’s Day assorted chocolate hearts with more than 40 million sold annually across North America. Gold Brick Eggs and Heavenly Hash Eggs are the iconic Easter candy brands in the New Orleans market that have been present at Easter celebrations for over a century.

The deal team was led by Clayton Jones, EVP of Business Development and advised by Berger Cohen & Brandt (Legal) and FORVIS (Diligence). Elmer was advised by NextGen Capital Markets (M&A).

To learn more about Elmer Chocolate’s timeless treats and future innovations, visit www.elmerchocolate.com. For updates from Hoffmann Family of Companies, visit www.hfcompanies.com.

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies

For More Information: Rachel Berkowitz | [email protected]

Strategic acquisition strengthens Hoffmann’s event services portfolio and expands presence in the Southeast

ATLANTA (July 29, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a U.S.-based family equity firm, is proud to announce the acquisition of Atlanta Party Rentals, a respected, family-run business renowned for its premium event rental services—from elegant seating and tents to staging and décor.

Founded in 2018, Atlanta Party Rentals has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality rental solutions for events of all sizes. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate function, private celebration, or large-scale production, the company offers a comprehensive inventory and exceptional customer service that makes it a trusted partner in the event industry.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled about the future of Atlanta Party Rentals now that we’ve joined forces with the Hoffmanns,” said Tim Dodd, President of Atlanta Party Rentals. “Their portfolio includes some of our dream collaborators in the DMC space, and I’m eager to explore how we can grow and innovate together. From our very first meeting, it was clear we shared a deep commitment to excellence and to our respective families. I’m genuinely excited for what lies ahead.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome Tim and his exceptional team to our growing family of companies,” said Geoff Hoffmann, CEO of HF Companies. “Our Hospitality & Entertainment vertical is home to some of the most innovative and respected names in the industry, and Atlanta Party Rentals is a perfect addition. Tim has built an outstanding business, and I’m excited about the opportunities ahead as we work together to expand and elevate their already impressive offerings.”

The deal team was led by Clayton Jones, EVP of Business Development and advised by McDonald Hopkins (Legal) and FORVIS (Diligence). Atlanta Party Rentals was advised by VRA Partners (M&A).

For more information about Hoffmann Family of Companies and its Hospitality & Entertainment vertical, please visit www.hfcompanies.com.

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies

For More Information: Hoffmann Family of Companies | Rachel Berkowitz | [email protected]

ST. LOUIS (July 18, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a U.S.-based family equity firm and significant shareholder of Lee Enterprises, Incorporated (NASDAQ: LEE), today confirmed that it has submitted a letter to the Company’s Board of Directors expressing interest in supporting a potential recapitalization of the Company.

The proposal outlines a $25 million investment in newly issued common equity at a price of $2.00 per share, alongside a $25 million fully backstopped rights offering to existing shareholders at the same price. This structure implies a pre-money enterprise valuation of approximately $462 million, based on Lee’s current debt obligations and outstanding shares.

HF Companies believes this proposal offers a fair, transparent, and constructive path toward recapitalizing Lee Enterprises—enhancing long-term financial stability and supporting continued investment in the Company’s digital transformation strategy.

The proposal assumes cooperation from both BH Finance, Lee’s senior lender, and the Company’s Board and management. HF Companies believes this transaction provides all stakeholders—including existing shareholders—with a meaningful opportunity to participate in a value-preserving solution.

There is no assurance that any transaction will be completed.

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies

About Hoffmann Media Group

Hoffmann Media Group—part of Hoffmann Family of Companies—is a dynamic and innovative media company committed to delivering high-quality journalism and content. With a strong focus on community engagement, the group operates a diverse portfolio of publications and media platforms, connecting audiences through trusted reporting and meaningful storytelling. Hoffmann Media Group publishes variety of publications, including The Napa Valley Register, St. Helena Star, Florida Weekly, Babcock Ranch Telegraph, Ave Maria Sun, Town Chronicle, St. Ignace News, Mackinac Island Town Crier, Florida Health Care News, and iFoundMyDoctor.com. These publications span over 30 markets and focus on delivering high-quality local news and content.

For More Information:
Rachel Berkowitz | HF Companies PR | [email protected]

New Storefront on 5th Avenue Marks Boutique’s Expansion from Missouri’s Wine Country to Florida’s Gulf Coast

NAPLES (July 2, 2025) – Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (“HCRE”), part of Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), is pleased to announce its latest acquisition—601 5th Ave. S in Naples, Fla. This premier location will soon be home to a new storefront for The Augusta Clothing Company, a boutique specializing in high-quality clothing and accessories, founded and curated by Jerri Hoffmann.

Originally established in April 2022 in Historic Augusta, Missouri—America’s first wine region—The Augusta Clothing Company embodies the charm and tradition of its surroundings. Housed within the 150-year-old Augusta Wine Hall building, the boutique features a meticulously curated collection of clothing, shoes, and accessories hand-selected by Jerri Hoffmann. With a reputation for timeless style and quality craftsmanship, The Augusta Clothing Company has become a beloved shopping destination in Augusta.

The expansion into Naples marks an exciting new chapter for the boutique, bringing its signature style and carefully curated selections to one of Florida’s most vibrant retail corridors.

“It’s great to have property on 5th Ave. again, and to bring such a beloved boutique to the area,” said Greg Hoffmann, Co-CEO of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “We are big believers in Naples commercial real estate and will always be looking for opportunities to acquire.”

With this latest venture, HF Companies continues its commitment to investing in high-quality properties while supporting unique, boutique-style retail experiences that enhance the character and charm of the communities it serves.

HCRE’s growth momentum is undeniable, with a diverse portfolio that includes both stabilized and value-added assets in prime locations nationwide. The company’s current holdings span California, Canada, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin.

To shop the collection, visit The Augusta Clothing Company.

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About Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate

Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), a subsidiary of HF Companies, is a premier real estate investment and development firm specializing in the acquisition, management and redevelopment of commercial properties. With a diverse portfolio that spans stabilized and value-added assets, HCRE is committed to enhancing the communities in which it operates through thoughtful development and superior property management. HCRE’s strategic investments are focused both within the United States and internationally, reinforcing its position as a leader in the commercial real estate industry. For more information, visit www.hoffmanncre.com.

About Hoffmann Family of Companies

For More Information:
Hoffmann Family of Companies | Rachel Berkowitz | [email protected]